Social theory of international politics (Cambridge studies in International Relations) -

Alexander Wendt

Cambridge

1999

378 páginas

12h 36m

ISBN-10: 0521465575

Drawing upon philosophy and social theory, Social Theory of International Politics develops a theory of the international system as a
social construction. Alexander Wendt clari®es the central claims of the constructivist approach, presenting a structural and idealist worldview which contrasts with the individualism and materialism which underpins much mainstream international relations theory.
He builds a cultural theory of international politics, which takes whether states view each other as enemies, rivals, or friends as a
fundamental determinant. Wendt characterizes these roles as ``cultures of anarchy,'' described as Hobbesian, Lockean, and Kantian
respectively. These cultures are shared ideas which help shape state interests and capabilities, and generate tendencies in the international system. The book describes four factors which can drive structural change from one culture to another interdependence, common fate, homogenization, and self-restraint and examines the effects of capitalism and democracy in the emergence of a Kantian culture in the West.